Epigenetics

Question 1

what are genes?

Answer 1

Genes are made of DNA providing the blueprint for the structure and function of the human body, including behavior.

Question 2

what are epigenetics?

Answer 2

Modern biologists do not simply argue that a gene “causes” a behavior; instead, they recognize what is known as the gene-environment interaction. This is part of a field of study known as epigenetics. Epigenetics argues that in order for a behavior to occur, genes must be “expressed.” This refers to the biological pattern of manifesting the genotype as phenotype.

Question 3

what is the methylation process ?

Answer 3

the process when chemicals are added to the DNA molecules and repress the gene expression/transcription

Question 4

what is the diathesis-stress model?

Answer 4

an individual’s reaction to stressful life events depends on their genetic makeup.